Grafton Public Library

Library Updates

This week at GPL Kids March 18-23

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This week at GPL Kids

Have you checked out our playspace yet? While it’s not the Children’s Room we all know and love, it’s still lots of fun!

This week, Arts and Crafts returns.

Monday

Let’s kick off the week with a lot of fun and play. That’s right, it’s Library Babies time. This event starts at 10:30 am. Parents and caregivers can bring in their babies for a fun-filled time of songs, rhymes, and of course, lots of cuddles. This is a perfect opportunity for babies to develop their motor skills, and for parents to connect with other parents. Don’t forget to join us!

Open Play runs after storytime, 11:30am-7pm.

Tuesday

Drop in and unleash your creativity with seasonal art in this engaging program designed for Grades K-5! Craft materials will be at your fingertips from 5:30-7:00 pm.

Our Open Play starts from 11:30 am and goes till 5:00 pm. This is a great opportunity for the kids to interact and learn from each other. Open Play encourages independent play, social interaction, and is a fun way for your little ones to start the week.

Wednesday

 

On Wednesday, we have a variety of activities lined up that will keep your little ones busy. It’s Toddler Time at 10:30 am, this event is designed to keep toddlers engaged and stimulated. In the evening, at 5:30 pm, we have our Card Games event. This is a great time for kids to learn new games, develop strategic thinking, and of course, have a lot of fun!

Open Play runs after storytime, 11:30am-5pm.

Thursday

On Thursday mornings, we have our Preschool Storytime at 10:30 am. This is a wonderful opportunity for preschoolers to enjoy some delightful stories and develop a love for reading from a young age.

Open Play runs after storytime, 11:30am-5pm.

Drop in and unleash your creativity with seasonal art in this engaging program designed for Grades K-5! Craft materials will be at your fingertips from 5:30-7:00 pm.

Friday and Saturday

On Fridays and Saturdays, Open Play is available, but with a slightly different schedule. It starts from 11:30 am and ends at 2:00 pm. It’s a great way to wrap up the week with more fun and play.

Check out our online calendar for more information, and to register for Preschool Storytime.

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September is Library Card Sign Up Month!

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September is Library Card Sign-up Month, when libraries nationwide join the American Library Association (ALA) to remind parents, caregivers, and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Libraries play a crucial role in the education and development of children, offering a variety of programs to spark creativity and stimulate an interest in reading and learning. Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams, explore new passions and interests, and find their voice.

Sign Up for a Library Card Online!

Did you know:

  • Library cards are FREE to Grafton residents, students and property owners, and to any MA resident.
  • Did you lose your card? September is the BEST time to replace the card, because the replacement cost is WAIVED every September.
  • It takes only minute to set up a library card.
  • Anyone can get a library card-even babies!
  • The Grafton Public Library continues to be FINE FREE.
  • Every two years, your card must be updated so we can confirm we have current contact information for you. September is a great time to update your card!
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September in the Children’s Room

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Click here for a copy of our September Newsletter.

 

Dear Patrons,

We regret to inform you that there won’t be any staff-led programs in the Children’s Room this September. We’re still in the process of recovering from an unfortunate flooding incident that occurred on the morning of Friday, August 18th.

Intense rainstorms resulted in significant flooding, with water entering the Children’s Room, the adjacent Children’s Program Room, and other areas on the south side of the building. The Children’s Program Room may require significant remediation to become a usable space again.

Additionally, we’re facing staffing challenges due to recent retirements and illnesses.

 

We understand that the Children’s Room is the heart of our library, and we’re aware of how much our beloved programs mean to you. Rest assured, there’s always plenty to do in the Children’s Room. We offer a wide range of activities, from toys and coloring to our famous in-room scavenger hunt. We’ve got enough fun to keep the kids entertained! Families, children, and caregivers are always welcome to enjoy our space, and we’d be thrilled to host playgroups and meetups in our engaging children’s area. For the latest updates on our programs,including special pop-up events, please visit our website and social media accounts.

We deeply apologize for any inconvenience this situation may cause and sincerely appreciate your understanding during this challenging time.

-CR Staff

We are delighted to see so many students who want to use the Library after school, but must remind parents of our Unattended Child Policy:

  • youth ages 0-7 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times;
  • youth ages 8-12 must be accompanied by parent/guardian remaining in the Library;
  • youth ages 13+ may be unaccompanied, provided your child is able to use Library independently and follow the Library’s Code of Conduct.

September is Library Card Sign-up Month, when libraries nationwide join the American Library Association (ALA) to remind parents, caregivers, and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Libraries play a crucial role in the education and development of children, offering a variety of programs to spark creativity and stimulate an interest in reading and learning. Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams, explore new passions and interests, and find their voice.

Sign Up for a Library Card Online!
Did you know:

  • Library cards are FREE to Grafton residents, students and property owners, and to any MA resident.
  • Did you lose your card? September is the BEST time to replace the card, because the replacement cost is WAIVED every September.
    It takes only minute to set up a library card.
  • Anyone can get a library card-even babies!
  • The Grafton Public Library continues to be FINE FREE.
  • Every two years, your card must be updated so we can confirm we have current contact information for you. September is a great time to update your card!
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Storytime Returns in May!

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Check out the May newsletter for children and families.

Drop in and make Star Wars themed crafts. All day. K+ Crafts may contain small parts. While supplies last.

Stop by the Library and pick up your FREE comic book in celebration of Free Comic Book Day!

Comics will be available while supplies last.

For more information on Free Comic Book Day and to find other locations visit: https://www.freecomicbookday.com/

May 6th at 11:00am

Saturday storytime is an all-ages program that repeats some elements from our popular weekday programs. Join Ms. Jen and Ms. Stacie for seasonal stories and songs!

Come dressed as your favorite superhero!

Preschool storytime programs resume this May at the Grafton Public Library! Join us for unique programs for three different age groups starting the week of May 1st! Storytimes will run for 4 weeks until May 25th.

  • Library Babies, featuring songs, bounces, and interactive board books, runs on Tuesdays at 9:15am.
  • Toddler Time, an active program for walkers through age three, is held on Wednesdays at 9:15  AND 10:30am. Join Ms. Sarah to share stories, sing songs and recite rhymes and finger plays.
  • Storytime for preschoolers is held on Thursday at 9:15am. This 45-minute program includes stories, felt board fun, and movement activities. These three programs will run for three weeks in May. Registration is required.

Because the 9:15am programs take place before the library opens to the public, please enter through the children’s program room door on the left side of the library. There will be directional signage posted outside the library on storytime days.  Please arrive on time for these programs. Due to their short run time, we cannot allow any latecomers to enter. 

Also in May is Young Scientists, the STEM storytime for ages three through six. Presented by STEM Beginnings, this 6-week series introduces STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) concepts through hands-on activities, story time and simple experiments. The “Young Scientists” series is sponsored by the YMCA Family & Community Partnership (YFCP), a Massachusetts Coordinated Family & Community Engagement (CFCE) Grant program funded by the Department of Early Education & Care and awarded to the YMCA of Central Massachusetts. Registration is required.

Fridays at 10:30am

May 5th, 12th, and 19th.

On Wednesday, May 10th at 3:30pm, join us at the Willard House & Clock Museum for a special storytime and a tour of the museum’s beautiful grounds. This program is for preschoolers ages three through five and registration is required.

On Monday, May 1st, join Apple Tree Arts for a fun-filled music and movement program for preschoolers ages 2 and up. Siblings are welcome! Parental participation is encouraged. Registration is required.

Drop-in and create some seasonal art. Grades K-5. Craft materials will be available from 5:30-7:00pm.

Tuesdays May 2nd, 9th, 23rd and 30th.

Thursdays May 11th, 18th, and 25th.

 

To sign up or see all Library programs, please visit our online event calendar.

 

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We’re counting down to 2023 in the children’s room!

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Due to a construction issue, these children’s programs have been canceled for December:

Library Babies, Toddler Time, Preschool Storytime

Lego Brickbuilders, Video Games and Comics Creator Club.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

 

 

The weather outside is frightful, so join us in our toasty warm library for storytime!

Library Babies, featuring songs, bounces, and interactive board books, runs on Tuesdays at 9:15am. Toddler Time, an active program for walkers through age three, is held on Wednesdays at 9:15am and 10:30am. Storytime for preschoolers is held on Thursdays at 9:15am. Registration is required for Preschool Storytime and Toddler Time.

Because the 9:15am programs take place before the library opens to the public, please enter through the children’s program room door on the right side of the library. There will be directional signage posted outside the library on storytime days. Please arrive on time for these programs. Due to their short run time, we cannot allow any latecomers to enter. Storytime programs will run until Thursday, December 22nd.

 


Ms. Kayla from Apple Tree Arts will visit the Library for a Music and Movement program from children aged two and up on Monday, December 5th at 10:30am. Registration is required.

 


On Wednesday, December 14th at 3:30pm, join us at the Willard House & Clock Museum for a special storytime and a tour of the museum’s beautiful grounds. This program is for preschoolers and registration is required.

 


There’s lots to do for older kids at the library too! Join us for Comic Creator Club or one of the three Bookworms book discussion groups. All four programs meet on Tuesday, December 13th. Please adhere to age requirements when registering. See graftonlibrary.org/events to see what books each age group will be reading this month. Books can be picked up at the library.

Feeling creative? Drop-in to LEGO Brickbuilders December 15th, 22nd and 29th from 3:30-5:00pm. Sewing club will be held on December 2nd and December 1oth.

Feeling artistic? Drop in and create Winter Art on Tuesday, December 6th, Tuesday, December 20th or Thursday, December 15th from 5:30-7:00pm.

 

Feeling competitive? We’re bringing out the Wii or Wii U to play some Nintendo Classics on the big screen in the program room on Friday, December 23rd  from 3:00pm-5:00pm.

Join us during school vacation week for a replay of some of our more popular school aged programs. Winter Art will be on Tuesday at 5:30pm, Video Games will run on Wednesday at 3:00pm, and Lego Brickbuilders will meet on Thursday at 3:30pm.

New Years at Noon is back, and bigger than ever! Join us on December 31st at 11:30am for a child-friendly bash. Count down to 2023 with us in our big community room. We’ve got lots of surprises in store!

To sign up or see all Library programs, please visit our online calendar.

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The Children’s Room Staff Can’t Wait for Summer!

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This June, we’ll be busy planning and prepping our Summer Reading program: Read Beyond the Beaten Path. Join us for six weeks of programs, classes, and activities! Returning favorites include Summer Songs in the Park, LEGO BrickBuilders, and movie afternoons. If you want a sneak peek, check out our online event calendar at graftonlibrary.org/events.

 

 

 

Come visit the Library in June to see the growing crystals in our Science Nook. Don’t forget to complete the Rainbow I Spy Monthly Mission! We’re also extending take home Tuesdays. For the entire month of June, we’ll have craft activities to take home every single day. First come, first serve. Look out for the return of Tinker Bags later in the month as well.

 

 

Join us for the last two Young Scientists classes of the Spring on Monday June 6th and Monday June 13th at 10:30am.  STEM Beginnings runs this class for children, ages 3-6. Learn STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) concepts through hands-on activities, story time and simple experiments. Register for this program online at graftonlibrary.org/events.

 

Also in June, if you have a child entering Kindergarten this fall, join YFCP at the Tom Knight Puppet Show! This program will take place on Thursday, June 9th at 6:30pm.  Siblings are welcome. Registration is required. Get Ready for Kindergarten and the “Young Scientists” series is sponsored by the YMCA Family & Community Partnership (YFCP), a Massachusetts Coordinated Family & Community Engagement (CFCE) Grant program funded by the Department of Early Education & Care and awarded to the YMCA of Central MA.

 

 

 

Check out our special displays for June:

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April in the Children’s Room

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Spring is a time for new beginnings in the Children’s Room. We are reintroducing our computers, wall manipulatives, coloring sheets, sensory table, games, and toys. Come visit and stay a while! We’re a great destination for playdates, grandparent outings, or rainy days.

In-room activities this month include the Monthly Mission animal match game. Investigate seedlings in our Science Nook. Celebrate National Poetry month by composing a quick poem on our magnetic poetry board.

To celebrate Pet First Aid Awareness Month, we’re hosting a Stuffed Animal Hospital. If your favorite stuffed friend isn’t feeling well, check them in for a stay. Drop off your friend any time on Monday, April 11th through Thursday April 14th. Pick them up by Saturday, April 16th.

Programming is also back this month! The first of three Mr. Kim shows is Friday, April 8th at 10:30. Registration is required. Families may only sign up for one Mr. Kim program per month. Additional shows are Friday, April 15th and Friday, April 29th. Register online.

Elementary school aged kids will find lots to do at the Grafton Public Library during vacation week.

On Tuesday, April 19th, children in grades three and up can craft a cute felt puppet. All materials will be provided. Register online.

On Wednesday, April 20th, celebrate Earth Day with us by crafting using recycled materials! Children in grades Kindergarten and up can make tornadoes in bottles. All materials will be provided. Register online.

On Thursday April 21st, Lego Brickbuilders Club meets. What will you create with the library’s HUGE collection of LEGO? Drop-in.

Friday April 22nd is movie day! Watch a magical family saga and make something magical of your own. Suncatchers at the 10:30am show, and perler beads at the 3:30pm show. Craft projects will be available on a first come, first served basis.

 

On Monday April 25 , learn about the characteristics of comics/graphic novels and then try drawing or writing some of your own.

 

Community Read Bookworms Book Clubs Thursday, April 28th

In celebration of the green building practices used during the library’s renovation and expansion project and Earth Day, The Friends of the Grafton Public Library encourage everyone in town to participate in this year’s Community Read.

Register online.

 

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Thursday April 28 at 3:00pm

Join us for a special storytime, fun activities, and see a highlighted feature of the Willard House & Clock Museum.
This program is for preschoolers ages 3-5 and registration is required. Register online.
Location: Willard House & Clock Museum, 11 Willard St.

 

Next Month-Storytime returns! Keep an eye on our Event Calendar for all the up-to-date info!

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February in the Children’s Room

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What’s New in the Children’s Room:

Our wall manipulatives and computers are not be available to use for the time-being. We’re sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. Please refer to this press release for more details.

ALL MONTH LONG:

This month in the children’s room, it’s a special Valentine’s scavenger hunt!

Do you choose to accept this mission?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print out your own Library Valentine! Or, pick one up in the Children’s Room or at Borrower Services. Color it in and upload to social media – don’t forget to use the hashtag #LibraryLovers!

You can select different valentines or just see what everyone else is creating at https://www.lovemasslibraries.com/upload/

Write us a letter, or download your own graphics participate digitally and remotely!

 

 

 

Want to take a chance on something new? Pick up one of our special Mystery Playdate books. There will be hints about the book written on the packaging. You may discover a new favorite!

 

 

 

 

From February 1 through March 31, Cradles to Crayons®, the Boston Bruins, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, and Wonderfund are coming together with organizations in your community to collect new pajamas for local children living in low-income and homeless situations. Together, we are looking to collect 5,000 pairs of pajamas. By supporting us with a PJ Drive, you will directly supply new pajamas to the children who need them most so they can stay warm while sleeping.

We are looking for brand new pajamas, appropriate for all seasons, from sizes 2T through adult medium. Please do not give pajamas that include any family or holiday references, and defer to Cradles to Crayons Quality = Dignity guidelines, purchasing ONLY items that all children would be both excited and proud to wear and use.

Our most needed sizes are:
Girls: 5/6 (child S), 7/8 (child M), 14/16 (child XL/adult S), 18/20 (child XXL/adult M)
Boys: 7/8 (child M), 14/16 (child XL/adult S), 18/20 (child XXL/adult M)”

Other ways to donate:

 

To celebrate the 15th Annual Bruins PJ Drive, we’re hosting another Stuffed Animal Sleepover!

Leave your stuffed friend at the Library for a special sleepover. Hijinks will ensue!

Drop off your friend on Saturday, February 12th thru Wednesday, February 16th. Friends need to be picked up before Friday, February 25th.

Join STEM Beginnings for a 6-week virtual series for children, ages 3-6. Children will learn STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) concepts through hands-on activities, story time and simple experiments.

This is an interactive class and parents/caregivers are encouraged to help their child.

Registration will begin two weeks prior to each event. By registering for this event, you are registering for this one event, not the entire six-week program. If the event is full, you may still submit this form to be placed on the waiting list. Attendees on the waiting list will be added to our next session. A minimum of eight families are required in order for the class to be held. If we do not receive the minimum number of registrants, this event may be canceled. A valid email address is required to register for all Grafton Public Library programs. If you are unable to attend, please call the Grafton Public Library at 508-839-4649.

This will be a virtual program via Zoom.

Dates and times for all programs are subject to change due to COVID conditions.

Please check our website or Facebook page for up-to-date program information.

The “Young Scientists” series is sponsored by the YMCA Family & Community Partnership (YFCP), which is a Massachusetts Coordinated Family & Community Engagement (CFCE) Grant funded by the Department of Early Education and Care and awarded to the YMCA of Central Massachusetts.

BOOKWORMS BOOK CLUBS

Join Miss Kristin for a special virtual book club for Kindergarteners and First Graders. We will be reading Poppy and Sam and the Leaf Thief by Cathon. Books are available for pick up in the GPL’s Children’s Room. Registration is required and begins on February 3rd.

Location: Zoom
Registration begins on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at 10:00 AM

 

 

 

Join Miss Kristin for a book club especially for Second and Third Graders. We will be reading Comics Squad Recess! Books are available for pick up in the GPL’s Children’s Room. Registration is required and begins on February 3rd.

Location: Zoom
Registration will begin on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at 10:00 AM

 

 

 

Join Miss Kristin for a virtual book club for Fourth and Fifth Graders. We will be reading Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier. Books are available for pick up in the GPL’s Children’s Room. Registration is required and begins on February 3rd.

Location: Zoom
Registration will begin on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at 10:00 AM

 

 

FEBRUARY VACATION WEEK PROGRAMS

Pick-up a special activity kit for kids 6-12. Kits are on a first-come, first served basis and will be available at 10am on Tuesday, February 25-Friday, February 28.

Kits may contain small parts and are intended for school-age students.

Kids, tweens, and teens in grades K-12 are invited to create their own Frankentoy. Inspired by Sid from Toy Story – participants will be able to create something new from old and broken toys.

Kits will be available on Friday the 18th at 3pm. If you’d like to be entered in the contest, take a photo of your Frankentoy creation and upload it using this form.

This free program is for kids, tweens, and teens in grades K-12. All supplies will be provided, but if you want to bring some of your own toy pieces you are welcome to.

Kids, tweens, and teens in grades K-12 are invited to participate in our first art show! Pick up your canvas anytime from Friday, February 18th to Saturday, February 26th.

Create with your canvas any way you wish-paint, collage, mixed media, even crayons!

Canvases must be returned to the library, with the artist’s name and contact info, by Saturday, March 5th. Canvases will be on display in the Children’s Room for the entire month of March.

Canvas must be picked up before Saturday April 9th.

This free program is for kids, tweens, and teens in grades K-12.

 

 

Crafters wanted! Take home everything you need to assemble this adorable yarn dog.  While supplies last. Grades 3+

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